Naomi Frederick and Anthony Howell in The Heresy Of Love at Shakespeare's Globe (Photo: Marc Brenner)

Naomi Frederick in The Heresy Of Love at Shakespeare's Globe (Photo: Marc Brenner)

Naomi Frederick and Patrick Driver in The Heresy Of Love at Shakespeare's Globe (Photo: Marc Brenner)

Gwyneth Keyworth and Sophia Nowvete in The Heresy Of Love at Shakespeare's Globe (Photo: Marc Brenner)

The Heresy Of Love

Published August 6, 2015

What’s it all about?

Plantagenet England, a morally dubious Vienna and the Forest of Arden – the settings of the Globe’s current offerings – give way to 17th century Mexico in this fascinating, beautifully written play about a nun whose literary creations are the subject of much controversy. The royals love ‘em; the Catholic Church… not so much.

Those wondering whether Shakespeare penned a 38th play that they weren’t aware of, don’t worry, that’s not the case. This is Helen Edmundson’s 2012 piece, inspired by Hieronymite nun Juana Inés de la Cruz, which is being revived at Shakespeare’s three years after its Royal Shakespeare Company premiere.

Who’s in it?

Naomi Frederick is compelling as the spirted Sister Juana, brimming with passion for her proto-feminist beliefs. She is joined by a cast dominated by equally strong female performers including Gwyneth Keyworth’s love struck Angelica and Sophia Nomvete’s witty, sarcasm-spouting Juanita.

What should I look out for?

We’ve already mentioned this we know, but so hilarious is Nomvete’s no-nonsense Juanita she deserves another mention. Her presence in every scene cements a permanent smile on your face and even her entrances and exits exude attitude!

Your phone, especially if you’re sitting in one of the upper galleries. One iPhone took a bit of a tumble on press night and was pronounced dead at the scene by one of the groundlings below.

In a nutshell?

Every line’s a gem in Helen Edmondson’s fascinating exploration of feminism in 17th century Mexico.

Will I like it?

This is Shakespeare’s Globe at its non-Shakespearean best. While some of the Bard’s much-loved texts have really shone on the iconic Bankside stage this summer, The Heresy Of Love is a refreshing departure that it would be a heresy not to love.